Students will investigate rocketry and the Newtonian physics relevant to the launch of a rocket. The mathematical formulae applicable to the calculation of payload, determining maximum altitude and range will be introduced. Practical skills in the constructing and launching their own solid fuel cell rockets will also be covered.
Students will also investigate how Australian scientists are contributing to the development of materials and technologies for space exploration including plasma propulsion, scram jet technology and the space elevator using carbon nanotubes.
Students will develop their own space project by working collaboratively in a team to design, construct and present a project focusing on an aspect of aerospace materials technologies that contributes to our efforts to explore and colonise space.